Data storage device adaptor with securement mechanism

ABSTRACT

In one embodiment, an apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a printed circuit board. The apparatus also includes a first connector coupled to the printed circuit board. The first connector is configured to couple the apparatus to a computing device. The apparatus further includes a second connector coupled to the printed circuit board. The second connector is configured to couple the apparatus to a data storage device. The apparatus further includes a securement mechanism comprising a first portion and a second portion. The securement mechanism is movable about the apparatus between a first position and a second position. The first portion is configured to maintain the securement mechanism at the first position. The second portion is configured to secure the data storage device to the apparatus when the securement mechanism is in the first position.

BACKGROUND Field of the Disclosure

This disclosure relates to a data storage device adaptor. Moreparticularly, the disclosure relates to a data storage device adaptorthat includes a securement mechanism.

Description of the Related Art

Data storage devices may be used to store data used by computingdevices. The computing devices may execute applications, apps, services,processes, threads, etc., that may read, write, update, and/or accessdata that is stored on the data storage devices. For example, acomputing device may store a file on a data storage device. In anotherexample, a computing device may read files from a data storage device.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, an apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes aprinted circuit board. The apparatus also includes a first connectorcoupled to the printed circuit board. The first connector is configuredto couple the apparatus to a computing device. The apparatus furtherincludes a second connector coupled to the printed circuit board. Thesecond connector is configured to couple the apparatus to a data storagedevice. The apparatus further includes a securement mechanism. Thesecurement mechanism includes a first portion and a second portion. Thesecurement mechanism is rotatable about a point on the apparatus betweena first position and a second position. The first portion is configuredto maintain the securement mechanism at the first position. The secondportion is configured to secure the data storage device to the apparatuswhen the securement mechanism is in the first position.

In one embodiment, an apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes aprinted circuit board. The apparatus also includes a first connectorcoupled to the printed circuit board. The first connector is configuredto couple the apparatus to a computing device. The apparatus furtherincludes a second connector coupled to the printed circuit board. Thesecond connector is configured to couple the apparatus to a data storagedevice. The apparatus further includes a securement mechanism. Thesecurement mechanism includes a first portion and a second portion. Thesecurement mechanism is movable along a length of the apparatus betweena first position and a second position. The first portion is configuredto maintain the securement mechanism at the first position. The secondportion is configured to secure the data storage device to the apparatuswhen the securement mechanism is in the first position.

In one embodiment, an apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes aprinted circuit board. The apparatus also includes a first connectorcoupled to the printed circuit board. The first connector is configuredto couple the apparatus to a computing device. The apparatus furtherincludes a second connector coupled to the printed circuit board. Thesecond connector is configured to couple the apparatus to a data storagedevice. The apparatus further includes a securement mechanism comprisinga first portion and a second portion. The securement mechanism ismovable about the apparatus between a first position and a secondposition. The first portion is configured to maintain the securementmechanism at the first position. The second portion is configured tosecure the data storage device to the apparatus when the securementmechanism is in the first position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example computing device, inaccordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2A illustrates an example data storage device in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2B illustrates an example data storage device in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of an adaptor in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3B illustrates a perspective view of an adaptor in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3C illustrates a top view of an adaptor in accordance with one ormore embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective view of an adaptor in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4B illustrates a perspective view of an adaptor in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4C illustrates a bottom view of an adaptor in accordance with oneor more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of an adaptor in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5B illustrates a bottom view of an adaptor in accordance with oneor more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6A illustrates a perspective view of an adaptor in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6B illustrates a perspective view of an adaptor in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective view of an adaptor in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective view of an adaptor in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of an adaptor in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9A illustrates a perspective view of an adaptor in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9B illustrates a perspective view of an adaptor in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

To facilitate understanding, identical reference numerals have beenused, where possible, to designate identical elements that are common tothe figures. It is contemplated that elements disclosed in oneembodiment may be beneficially utilized on other embodiments withoutspecific recitation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following disclosure, reference is made to examples,implementations, and/or embodiments of the disclosure. However, itshould be understood that the disclosure is not limited to specificdescribed examples, implementations, and/or embodiments. Any combinationof the features, functions, operations, components, devices, parts,modules, etc., disclosed herein, whether related to differentembodiments or not, may be used to implement and practice thedisclosure. Furthermore, although embodiments of the disclosure mayprovide advantages and/or benefits over other possible solutions,whether or not a particular advantage and/or benefit is achieved by agiven embodiment is not limiting of the disclosure. Thus, the followingaspects, features, embodiments and advantages are merely illustrativeand are not considered elements or limitations of the appended claimsexcept where explicitly recited in a claim(s). Likewise, reference to“the disclosure” shall not be construed as a generalization of anyinventive subject matter disclosed herein and shall not be considered tobe an element or limitation of the appended claims except whereexplicitly recited in the claim(s).

The headings provided herein are for convenience only and do notnecessarily affect the scope or meaning of the claimed invention.Disclosed herein are example implementations, configurations, and/orembodiments relating to encoding and/or decoding digital videos usingcontrollers (e.g., processors, processing devices, etc.) of data storagedevices.

Data storage devices, such as memory cards (e.g., secure digital (SD)cards), memory sticks (e.g., universal serial bus (USB) stick, thumbdrives, etc.), solid state drives (SSDs), hard disk drives (HDDs),hybrid drives (e.g., storage drives/devices that include both magneticmedia/medium and flash memory), etc., typically include one or morecontrollers coupled with one or more non-volatile memory (NVM) arrays.The controllers may execute commands (e.g., access commands, data accesscommands, etc.) to read, write, access, etc., data that may be stored inthe one or more NVM arrays.

It may be useful to test the operations/functions of data storagedevices at various points in time. For example, a data storage devicemay be tested during the manufacture of the data storage device. Inanother example, the data storage device may be tested after the datastorage device is installed in a device (e.g., installed in a computer).The tests may determine the performance of the data storage device. Forexample, during the manufacturing process for data storage devices, itmay be useful to test the performance of the data storage device toensure that the data storage device performs as expected. A data storagedevice may be installed in an adaptor that allows the data storagedevice to be connected to a computing device and tested. For example,the adaptor may be inserted into the computing device and/or coupled tothe computing device to test the data storage device. Installing thedata storage device in the adaptor may take time and effort for theuser. For example, conventional methods for securing data storagedevices to an adaptor may use a screw. It may be more difficult and/ortime consuming for users to attach the data storage device to theadaptor using a screw. This may increase the effort, time, and/or costwhen testing the data storage device. For example, if a large number ofdata storage devices are tested (e.g., in a testing/manufacturingenvironment) a user (e.g., a tester) spends a minute screwing in andunscrewing a data storage device from an adaptor, this may decrease thenumber of data storage devices a user may testing during a period oftime.

The embodiments, implementations, examples, etc., disclosed herein mayallow a data storage device to be secured, installed, coupled to, etc.,an adaptor more quickly. An adaptor may include a securement mechanismthat allows a user to use a single motion and/or one hand to secure thedata storage device to an adaptor. For example, the securement mechanismmay be a latch that the user may rotate/swing into different positions.In another example, the securement mechanism may be a slider that theuser may slide into different positions. The securement mechanism mayavoid contact with other components (e.g., memory chips, flash chips,etc.) of the data storage device while securing the data storage deviceto the adaptor.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example computing device 100, inaccordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. Thecomputing device 100 includes a processing device 110, a random accessmemory (RAM) 115, and data storage device 120. The processing device 110may be one or more devices that execute instructions (e.g., executesmachine instructions, code, machine code, etc.). Examples of aprocessing device may include, but are not limited to a controller, asystem-on-a-chip (SoC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), anapplication-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a central processingunit (CPU), a processor, a multi-core processor, a graphics processingunit (GPU), etc. The RAM 115 may be a volatile memory that stores datathat may be used by the processing device 110. A volatile memory may bea memory (or other device that stores data and allows access to thedata) that does not retain the data when power is not provided to thevolatile memory (e.g., when power is turned off).

The computing device 100 may be a device that may execute services,processes, applications, apps, instructions, etc., to perform one ormore operations. Examples of computing devices include, but are notlimited to, phones (e.g., smart phones, cellular phones, etc.), cableset-top boxes, smart televisions (TVs), video game consoles, laptopcomputers, tablet computers, desktop computers, server computers,personal digital assistances, wearable devices (e.g., smart watches),media players, cameras, and/or other types of electronic devices. Thecomputing device may also be referred to as a host system. The computingdevice 100 may be coupled to one or more networks and/or other computingdevices via the one or more networks (E.g., a local area network, a widearea network, a wired network, a wireless network a cellular network,etc.).

The computing device 100 may include an adaptor 180. The adaptor 180 mayallow the data storage device 120 to conform to (e.g., fit within) otherform factors or standards. For example, the adaptor 180 may allow adevice that has an M.2 form factor to be used in a slot that conforms toa 2.5-inch drive form factor. The adaptor 180 may also allow the datastorage device 120 to be coupled to a type of connector that isdifferent than the type of the connector used by the data storage device120. For example, the adaptor 180 may allow the data storage device 120(which may include a first type of connector, such as an NVMe connector)to be coupled to the computing device 100 via another type of connector(e.g., a SATA connector). In some embodiments, the adaptor 180 may beseparate from and/or external to the computing device 100.

The data storage device 120 may be any type of data storage device,drive, module, component, system, or the like. Furthermore, the terms“card,” “memory card,” “drive,” “flash drive,” “memory stick,” “storagedrive,” “hard drive” and “data storage drive” may be used herein incertain contexts to refer to any type of data storage device, and may beused substantially interchangeably with the term “data storage device”herein in connection with various embodiments and/or in variouscontexts. As shown, the data storage device 120 (e.g., hybrid harddrive, solid-state drive, a memory card, any storage device utilizingsolid-state memory, a hard disk drive, any storage device utilizingmagnetic media/medium, etc.) includes a controller 130 (e.g., controlcircuitry, software, firmware, or a combination thereof) and anon-volatile memory 140. For example, the data storage device 120 may bea secure digital (SD) card, a miniSD card, a microSD card, a compactflash (CF) card, a multimedia card (MMC), an eXtreme digital (xD) card,etc.

The non-volatile memory (NVM) 140 may be configured for long-termstorage of data and may retain data between power on/off cycles of thedata storage device 120. The non-volatile memory 140 and/or portions ofthe non-volatile memory 140 may also be referred to as a storage medium.In some embodiments, the non-volatile memory 140 may include solid-statememory. Solid-state memory may comprise a wide variety of technologies,such as flash integrated circuits, Phase Change Memory (PC-RAM or PRAM),Programmable Metallization Cell RAM (PMC-RAM or PMCm), Ovonic UnifiedMemory (OUM), Resistance RAM (RRAM), NAND memory (e.g., single-levelcell (SLC) memory, multi-level cell (MLC) memory, triple level cellmemory, X4 cell memory, etc.), NOR memory, EEPROM, Ferroelectric Memory(FeRAM), magnetoresistive RAM (MRAM), or other discrete solid-statememory chips.

In other embodiments, the non-volatile memory 140 may include magneticmedia (including shingle magnetic recording), optical disks, floppydisks, electrically programmable read only memories (EPROM),electrically erasable programmable read only memories (EEPROM), etc.Non-volatile memory that uses magnetic media/medium may include one ormore magnetic platters. Each platter may contain one or more regions ofone or more tracks of data. The non-volatile memory 140 may include anycombination of the one or more types of memories described here. Thenon-volatile memory 140 may be divided logically and/or physically intocells, dies, arrays, planes, blocks, pages, tracks, and sectors.

The controller 130 may include one or more processors, memory devices,data and/or power transmission channels/paths, boards, or the like. Insome embodiments, the controller 130 may be implemented as one or moresystem-on-a-chip (SoC) modules, field-programmable gate array (FPGA)modules, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) modules,processing devices (e.g., processors), chips, or the like. In otherembodiments, one or more components of the controller 130 may be mountedon a printed circuit board (PCB). The controller 130 may be configuredto receive data commands from a storage interface (e.g., a devicedriver) residing on the computing device 100.

The controller 130 may communicate with the computing device 100 over ahost interface 160, and may receive commands via the host interface 160.A host interface 160 may be hardware, software, and/or a combinationthereof that allows the processing device to communicate with the datastorage device 120. Examples of host interfaces include, but are notlimited to, peripheral component interconnect express (PCIe), serial ATattachment (SATA), serial attached small computer system interface(SAS), non-volatile memory express (NVMe), etc. These commands may bereferred to as data commands, data access commands, data storage accesscommands, etc. Data commands may specify a block address in the datastorage device 120. Data may be accessed/transferred based on such datacommands. For example, the controller 130 may receive data commands(from the computing device 100) and may execute such commands on/in thenon-volatile memory 140 (e.g., in one or more arrays, pages, blocks,sectors, etc.). The data commands received from computing device 100 mayinclude read data commands, write data commands, and erase datacommands. The controller 130 may be coupled to the non-volatile memory(NVM) 140 via a memory interface 150. In one embodiment, the memoryinterface 150 may include a plurality of channels (e.g., one or morelines, pines, wires, traces, etc.) and each channel may be coupled todifferent portions of the non-volatile memory 140 (e.g., different NVMarrays, different flash arrays, etc.).

The controller 130 may include an encoder and/or decoder (notillustrated in the figures) to encode and/or decode data. The encodermay encode data when storing the data on the non-volatile memory 140.The encoder may encode the data to protect the data from errors, loss,corruption, etc. For example, the encoder may use parity bits, errorcorrection codes, codewords, etc. The decoder may decode data and/orperform error correction on the data that is stored on the non-volatilememory 140 (e.g., may decode codewords).

The data storage device 120 may store data received from the computingdevice 100 such that the data storage device 120 acts as data storagefor the computing device 100. To facilitate this function, thecontroller 130 may implement a logical interface. The logical interfacemay present to the computing device memory as a set of logical addresses(e.g., sequential/contiguous addresses) where data may be stored.Internally, the controller 130 may map logical addresses to variousphysical memory addresses in the non-volatile memory arrays 141 and/orother memory module(s).

As discussed above, it may be useful to test the operations/functions ofdata storage devices at various points in time (e.g., during themanufacture of data storage devices). The tests may determine theperformance of the data storage device. A data storage device may beinstalled in an adaptor that allows the data storage device to beconnected to a computing device and tested. Decreasing the amount oftime for a user to attach, install, secure, etc., a data storage deviceto an adaptor may allow the data storage devices to be tested morequickly, efficiently, and/or may save costs. It may also be useful toprovide an adaptor to enable various form factors of data storagedevices to be installed in storage and/or computing systems with slotsthat do not conform to the storage devices' dimensions.

FIG. 2A illustrates an example data storage device 120 in accordancewith one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As discussedabove, the data storage device 120 (e.g., a solid-state drive, a storagedevice utilizing solid-state memory, etc.) includes a controller 130(e.g., control circuitry, software, firmware, or a combination thereof)coupled to a non-volatile memory (e.g., flash memory, solid-statememory, etc.) via a memory interface. The non-volatile memory may beconfigured for long-term storage of data and may retain data betweenpower on/off cycles of the data storage device 120. The controller mayinclude one or more processors, memory devices, data and/or powertransmission channels/paths, boards, or the like. The controller maycommunicate with the computing device over a host interface, and mayreceive commands via the host interface. These commands may be referredto as data commands, data access commands, data storage access commands,etc. Data may be accessed/transferred based on such data commands (e.g.,data may be read, written, erased, etc.). The controller may alsoinclude an encoder and/or a decoder for encoding and/or decoding data,as discussed above.

As illustrated in FIG. 2A, the data storage device 120 may include aconnector 221. The connector 221 may allow the data storage device 120to be coupled to another device (e.g., a computing device, amotherboard, an adaptor, etc.). The connector 221 may be coupled to acorresponding connector on other device. For example, the connector 221may be a male connector which is inserted into a corresponding femaleconnector on the other device. In one embodiment, the connector may be anon-volatile memory express (NVMe) connector. Although the presentdisclosure may refer to NVMe connectors, other types of connectors maybe used in the data storage device 120 in other embodiments.

Also as illustrated in FIG. 2A, the data storage device 120 may includea retention feature 222. The retention feature 222 may be a portion ofthe data storage device 120 that may come into contact with anothercomponent (e.g., a screw, a bolt, etc.) to prevent the data storagedevice 120 from moving. The retention feature 222 may be used to retain,secure, mount, install, etc., the data storage device 120 to anotherdevice. The retention feature 222 may include a notch, cutout, a groove,an indent, etc., in a printed circuit board (PCB) of the data storagedevice. The retention feature 222 may also include the area around thenotch which may come into contact with a securing component or mechanism(e.g., a screw, a tab, etc.) as discussed in more detail below. Forexample, a screw may be inserted through the notch to secure the datastorage device 120 to the printed circuit board of another device.

In one embodiment, the data storage device 120 may have an M.2 formfactor and/or may conform to the M.2 standard. The M.2 standard mayspecify the dimensions of the data storage device 120 and/or componentsof the data storage device. For example, the M.2 standard may indicatethe length (e.g., 16 millimeters (mm), 26 mm, 30 mm, 38 mm, 42 mm, 60mm, 80 mm, 110 mm, or some other appropriate length) and/or width (e.g.,12 mm, 16 mm, 22 mm, 30 mm, or some other appropriate width). The M.2standard may also indicate the types of connectors and/or locations ofconnectors for the data storage device 120. The M.2 standard may furtherspecify the locations, and/or dimensions of components of the datastorage device 120. For example, the M.2 standard may specify thethickness of a printed circuit board 223 of the data storage device 120.In another example, the M.2 standard may specify the location and/ordimensions of components located on the printed circuit board 223 (e.g.,flash memory chips, a controller, a processing device, etc.). Althoughthe present disclosure may refer to the M.2 standard and/or form factor,other types of data storage devices which conform to other standardsand/or form factors may be used in other embodiments.

FIG. 2B illustrates an example data storage device 120 in accordancewith one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As discussedabove, the data storage device 120 includes a controller 130 coupled toa non-volatile memory via a memory interface. The non-volatile memorymay be configured for long-term storage of data and may retain databetween power on/off cycles of the data storage device 120. Thecontroller may communicate with the computing device over a hostinterface, and may receive commands via the host interface. Data may beaccessed/transferred based on such data commands (e.g., data may beread, written, erased, etc.). The data storage device 120 may store datareceived from the computing device 100 such that the data storage device120 acts as data storage for the computing device 100.

As illustrated in FIG. 2B, the data storage device 120 may include aconnector 221 which may allow the data storage device 120 to be coupledto another device. The connector 221 may be coupled to a correspondingconnector on other device. In one embodiment, the connector may be anon-volatile memory express (NVME) connector. Also as illustrated inFIG. 2B, the data storage device 120 may include a retention feature222. The retention feature 222 may include a notch, cutout, a groove, anindent, etc., in a printed circuit board (PCB) of the data storagedevice. As discussed above, the data storage device 120 may have orconform to an M.2 form factor and/or standard.

FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of an adaptor 180A in accordancewith one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The adaptor 180Aincludes a securement mechanism 390, a printed circuit board 384, aconnector 382, and a connector 383. As illustrated and withoutlimitation, the securement mechanism 390 may be generally disposed,coupled or otherwise attached at a proximal end or edge with respect tothe adaptor 180A. The connector 382 and the connector 383 may each becoupled to the printed circuit board 384. The adaptor 180A may allow thedata storage device 120 to conform to (e.g., fit within) other formfactors or standards. For example, the adaptor 180A may allow a devicethat has an M.2 form factor to be used in a slot that conforms to a2.5-inch drive form factor. The adaptor 180A may also allow the datastorage device 120 to be coupled to a type of connector that isdifferent than the type of the connector 221 used by the data storagedevice 120. For example, the adaptor 180A may allow the data storagedevice 120 (which may include a first type of connector, such as an NVMEconnector) to be coupled to a computing device via another type ofconnector (e.g., a SATA connector).

A data storage device 120 (e.g., a flash drive, a solid state drive, aM.2 drive, etc.) may be coupled to the adaptor 180A (e.g., an apparatus)via the connector 382. The connector 383 may allow the adaptor 180A (andthe data storage device 120) to be coupled to another device (e.g., acomputing device, a computer, etc.). For example, the connector 383 maybe a SATA connector (e.g., a male SATA connector or some other type ofconnector) that allows the adaptor 180A to be coupled to another SATAconnector in the other device. The connector 382 and the connector 383may be coupled to each other. For example, pins, wires, traces, etc.,may couple the connector 382 to the connector 383. This may allow dataand/or power to be transmitted between the connector 382 and theconnector 383.

The securement mechanism 390 is attached to the adaptor 180A at point385 (e.g., a location) on the adaptor 180A. For example, the securementmechanism 390 may be attached to the adaptor via screws, nuts, bolts,etc., at point 385. The securement mechanism 390 may be rotatable (e.g.,movable) to various positions, about the point 385. For example, thesecurement mechanism 390 may be rotated around the point 385 to variouspositions, as discussed in more detail below. As illustrated in FIG. 3A,the point 385 is offset from an axis of the data storage device 120(e.g., the axis illustrated by the dashed line). For example, the point385 is not located along (e.g., is offset from) the longitudinal axis ofthe data storage device 120 (e.g., the center axis along the length ofthe data storage device 120).

In one embodiment, the securement mechanism 390 be in a first position,as illustrated in FIG. 3A. In the first position, the securementmechanism 390 may secure the data storage device 120 to the adaptor180A. The data storage device 120 may be irremovable from the adaptor180A when the securement mechanism 390 is in the first positionillustrated in FIG. 3A. For example, the securement mechanism 390 mayprevent the data storage device 120 from being removed, uncoupled, etc.,from the adaptor 180A (e.g., may prevent the data storage device 120from being removed without damaging the data storage device 120) whenthe securement mechanism is in the first position. The first positionmay be referred to as a closed position, a secure position, a lockedposition, etc.

The securement mechanism 390 includes a protrusion 391. In oneembodiment, the protrusion 391 may secure (or help secure) the datastorage device 120 to the adaptor 180A when the securement mechanism 390is in the first position (e.g., the closed positioned). The protrusion391 may be a tab, or similar abutment, etc., that may interact with aretention feature of the data storage device 120 (e.g., retentionfeature 222 illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B). For example, the protrusion391 may interact with (e.g., touch, contact, abut, push against, etc.)the retention feature of the data storage device 120. This may preventthe data storage device 120 from being moved, adjusted, removed,repositioned, etc. For example, the protrusion 391 may keep the datastorage device 120 from being pulled out of the connector 382, frombeing lifted, etc. The protrusion 391 may allow the securement mechanism390 to secure the data storage device 120 to the adaptor 180A withouttouching other components of the data storage device (e.g., withouttouching flash ships, a controller, wires, pins, etc.).

The securement mechanism 390 includes a ledge 392. In one embodiment,the ledge 392 may maintain (or help maintain) the securement mechanism390 in the first position (e.g., in the closed position). For example,the ledge 392 may include one or more aperture(s) 393 (e.g., one on thea first/upper/top side of the securement mechanism 390 and one of thesecond/lower/bottom side of the securement mechanism 390). Theaperture(s) 393 may interact with one or more features (e.g., lockingfeatures) of the adaptor 180A to maintain the securement mechanism 390in the first position (e.g., to prevent the securement mechanism 390from moving). For example, one or more tabs (e.g., protrusions, bumps,etc.) on the adaptor 180A may temporarily deform to allow the one ormore tabs to be inserted into the aperture(s) 393. After the one or moretabs are inserted into the aperture(s) 393, the tabs may reform (e.g.,go back to their original shape). The one or more tabs may help preventthe securement mechanism 390 from moving out of the first position(e.g., from moving out of the closed position) by touching, pushingagainst, touching, interacting with, interface with, etc., the walls ofthe aperture(s) 393.

In one embodiment, the securement mechanism 390 also includes a tab 394.The tab 394 may assist a user in moving the securement mechanism 390into different positions. For example, the tab 394 may provide a surfacefor a user to apply pressure or force (e.g., using the user's thumb) topush the securement mechanism 390 into the first position.

In one embodiment, the securement mechanism 390 may allow the datastorage device 120 to be secured, installed, coupled to, etc., anadaptor more quickly and/or easily. For example, the engagement 394 andthe latch configuration of the securement mechanism 390 may allow thesecurement mechanism 390 to be quickly and/or easily rotated into theclosed or locked position. The engagement 394 also allows a user tosecure the data storage device 120 to the adaptor 180A with one hand.The protrusion 391 allows the securement mechanism to secure the datastorage device 120 in the adaptor 180A while avoiding contact with othercomponents (e.g., memory chips, flash chips, etc.) of the data storagedevice 120.

FIG. 3B illustrates a perspective view of an adaptor in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The adaptor 180Aincludes a securement mechanism 390, a printed circuit board 384, aconnector 382, and a connector 383. The connector 382 and the connector383 may be coupled to the printed circuit board 384. A data storagedevice 120 may be coupled to the adaptor 180A via the connector 382. Theconnector 383 may allow the adaptor 180A (and the data storage device120) to be coupled to another device (e.g., a computing device, acomputer, etc.). The connector 382 and the connector 383 may be coupledto each other via pins, wires, traces, etc. This may allow data and/orpower to be transmitted between the connector 382 and the connector 383.The securement mechanism 390 is attached to the adaptor 180A at point385. The securement mechanism 390 may be rotatable (e.g., movable) tovarious positions, about the point 385. As illustrated in FIG. 3B, thepoint 385 is offset from an axis of the data storage device 120 (e.g.,the axis illustrated by the dashed line).

In one embodiment, the securement mechanism 390 be in a second position,as illustrated in FIG. 3B. In the second position, the securementmechanism 390 may allow the data storage device 120 to be removed fromthe adaptor 180A. For example, the data storage device 120 may beremovable from the adaptor 180A when the securement mechanism 390 is inthe first position illustrated in FIG. 3B. The second may be referred toas an open position, a free position, an accessible position, etc.

The securement mechanism 390 includes a protrusion 391. As discussedabove, the protrusion 391 (e.g., a tab, abutment, etc.) may secure (orhelp secure) the data storage device 120 to the adaptor 180A when thesecurement mechanism 390 is in the first position (e.g., the closedpositioned). In the second position (illustrated in FIG. 3B), theprotrusion 391 may not interact with (e.g., may not touch, contact,abut, push against, etc.) the retention feature 222 of the data storagedevice 120. This may allow the data storage device 120 to be moved,adjusted, removed, repositioned, etc. For example, because theprotrusion 391 is not in contact with the retention feature 222 of thedata storage device 120, the protrusion 391 may not prevent the datastorage device 120 from being moved, removed, etc.

The securement mechanism 390 includes a ledge 392. The ledge 392 mayinclude one or more aperture(s) 393. The aperture(s) 393 may interactwith one or more features 387 of the adaptor 180A to maintain thesecurement mechanism 390 in the first position (e.g., to prevent thesecurement mechanism 390 from moving), as discussed above.

In one embodiment, the features 387 may be part of component 386 that iscoupled to the adaptor 180A (e.g., that screwed onto, attached to, etc.,the adaptor 180A). For example, the component 386 may be a layer, strip,bar, segment, etc., that is attached to the printed circuit board 384 ofthe adaptor 180A. The component 386 may also include a guiding feature388 (e.g., a tab, a protrusion, a bump, etc.) that may allow a user toalign the data storage device 120 when the data storage device 120 iscoupled to the connector 382. For example, the guiding feature 388(e.g., the tab) may fit within the gap of retention feature 222 toproperly align the data storage device 120.

FIG. 3C illustrates a top view of an adaptor 180A in accordance with oneor more embodiments of the present disclosure. The adaptor 180A includesa securement mechanism 390, a printed circuit board 384, a connector382, and a connector 383. A data storage device 120 may be coupled tothe adaptor 180A via the connector 382. The securement mechanism 390 isattached to the adaptor 180A at point 385 on the adaptor 180A. Thesecurement mechanism 390 may be rotatable to various positions, aboutthe point 385, as illustrated by the dotted arrow.

In one embodiment, the securement mechanism 390 be in a second position,as illustrated in FIG. 3C. In the second position, the securementmechanism 390 may allow the data storage device 120 to be removed fromthe adaptor 180A. The securement mechanism 390 includes a protrusion391. In the second position, the protrusion 391 may not interact withthe retention feature 222 of the data storage device 120. This may allowthe data storage device 120 to be moved, adjusted, removed,repositioned, etc. The securement mechanism 390 also includes a ledge392. The ledge 392 may include one or more aperture(s) 393 that mayinteract with one or more features 387 of the adaptor 180A to maintainthe securement mechanism 390 in the first position, as discussed above.The features 387 may be part of component 386 that is coupled to theadaptor 180A. The component 386 may also include a guiding feature 388that may allow a user to align the data storage device 120 when the datastorage device 120 is coupled to the connector 382.

FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective view of an adaptor 180B in accordancewith one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The adaptor 180Bincludes a securement mechanism 390, a printed circuit board 384, aconnector 382A, a connector 382B, and a connector 383. The adaptor 180Balso includes connectors 382C and 382D, as discussed in more detailbelow. The data storage device 120A may be coupled to the adaptor 180Bvia the connector 382A. The data storage device 120B may be coupled tothe adaptor 180B via the connector 382B. The data storage devices 120Aand 120B may be located on a same side of the adaptor 180B (e.g., a top,upper, or first side). The securement mechanism 390 is attached to theadaptor 180B at point 385 on the adaptor 180B. The securement mechanism390 may be rotatable to various positions. As illustrated in FIG. 4A,the point 385 is offset from the axes of the data storage devices 120Aand 120B (indicated by the dashed lines).

In one embodiment, the securement mechanism 390 be in a first position(e.g., a closed position), as illustrated in FIG. 4A. In the firstposition, the securement mechanism 390 may prevent the data storagedevice 120 from being removed from the adaptor 180B. The securementmechanism 390 includes protrusions 391A and 391B. Additional protrusions391C and 391D (not illustrated in FIG. 4A) are discussed in more detailbelow. The protrusion 391A may secure (or help secure) the data storagedevice 120A to the adaptor 180B when the securement mechanism 390 is inthe first position. The protrusion 391B may secure (or help secure) thedata storage device 120B to the adaptor 180B when the securementmechanism 390 is in the first position. In the first position, theprotrusions 391A and 391B may interact with the retention features ofthe data storage devices 120A and 120B. This may prevent the datastorage device 120 from being moved, adjusted, removed, repositioned,etc. The securement mechanism 390 also includes a ledge 392. The ledge392 may include one or more aperture(s) 393 that may interact with oneor more features of the adaptor 180B to maintain the securementmechanism 390 in the first position, as discussed above.

FIG. 4B illustrates a perspective view of an adaptor in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The adaptor 180Bincludes a securement mechanism 390, a printed circuit board 384, aconnector 382A, a connector 382B, and a connector 383. The adaptor 180Balso includes connectors 382C and 382D, as discussed in more detailbelow.

In one embodiment, the securement mechanism 390 be in a second position(e.g., an open position), as illustrated in FIG. 4B. In the secondposition, the securement mechanism 390 may allow the data storagedevices 120A and 120B to be removed from the adaptor 180B. Thesecurement mechanism 390 also includes a ledge 392. The ledge 392 mayinclude one or more aperture(s) 393 that may interact with one or morefeatures 387 of the adaptor 180B to maintain the securement mechanism390 in the first position, as discussed above. The features 387 may bepart of component 386 that is coupled to the adaptor 180B. The component386 may also include guiding features 388A and 388B that may allow auser to align the data storage devices 120A and 120B when the datastorage devices 120A and 120B are coupled to the connectors 382A and382B.

FIG. 4C illustrates a bottom view of an adaptor 180B in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The adaptor 180Bincludes a securement mechanism 390, a printed circuit board 384, aconnector 382A, a connector 382B, and a connector 383. The data storagedevice 120C may be coupled to the adaptor 180B via the connector 382C.The data storage device 120D may be coupled to the adaptor 180B via theconnector 382D. The data storage devices 120C and 120D may be located ona same side of the adaptor 180B (e.g., the bottom, lower, second side).The securement mechanism 390 is attached to the adaptor 180B at point385 on the adaptor 180B. As illustrated in FIG. 4A, the point 385 isoffset from the axes of the data storage devices 120C and 120D(indicated by the dashed lines).

In one embodiment, the securement mechanism 390 be in a second position(e.g., an open position), as illustrated in FIG. 4C. In the secondposition, the securement mechanism 390 may allow the data storagedevices 120C and 120D to be removed from the adaptor 180B. Thesecurement mechanism 390 includes protrusions 391A, 391B, 391C and 391D,as discussed above. The protrusion 391C may secure (or help secure) datastorage device 120C to the adaptor 180B when the securement mechanism390 is in the first position. The protrusion 391D may secure (or helpsecure) data storage device 120D to the adaptor 180B when the securementmechanism 390 is in the first position.

The securement mechanism 390 also includes a ledge 392. The ledge 392may include one or more aperture(s) 393 that may interact with one ormore features 387 of the adaptor 180B to maintain the securementmechanism 390 in the first position, as discussed above. The features387 may be part of component 386 that is coupled to the adaptor 180B.The component 386 may also include guiding features 388C and 388D thatmay allow a user to align the data storage devices 120C and 120D whenthe data storage devices 120C and 120D are coupled to the connectors382C and 382D. As illustrated in FIG. 4C, the data storage devices 120Aand 120B, have a different size (e.g., length) than the data storagedevices 120C and 120D. In other embodiments, data storage device 120Aand 120C may be located on the same side. For examples, the connectors382A and 382C may be located at different locations along the length ofthe adaptor 180B if data storage device 120A and 120C are located on thesame side of the adaptor 180B.

FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of an adaptor in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The adaptor 180Cincludes securement mechanisms 390A and 390B, a printed circuit board384, a connector 382A, a connector 382B, and a connector 383. Theadaptor 180C also includes other connectors, as discussed in more detailbelow. The data storage device 120A may be coupled to the adaptor 180Cvia the connector 382A. The data storage device 120B may be coupled tothe adaptor 180C via the connector 382B. The data storage devices 120Aand 120B may be located on a same side of the adaptor 180C (e.g., afront, upper, first side). The securement mechanisms 390A and 390B isattached to the adaptor 180C at point 385 on the adaptor 180C. Thesecurement mechanisms 390A and 390B may be rotatable to variouspositions. As illustrated in FIG. 5A, the point 385 is offset from theaxes of the data storage devices 120A and 120B (indicated by the dashedlines). In other embodiments, multiple points (e.g., multiple pivotpoints) may be used to attach the securement mechanisms 390A and 390B tothe data storage device. For example, one pivot point may be in thecenter of the adaptor 180C and another pivot point may be located nearan edge (e.g., left/right edge) of the adaptor 180C. In another example,one pivot point may be located on the right edge of the adaptor 180C andthe other pivot point may be located on the left edge of the adaptor180C.

In one embodiment, the securement mechanism 390A be in a first position(e.g., a closed position) and the securement mechanism 390B may be in asecond position (e.g., an open position). In the first position, thesecurement mechanism 390A may prevent the data storage device 120A frombeing removed from the adaptor 180C. In the second position, thesecurement mechanism 390B may allow the data storage device 120B to beremoved from the adaptor 180C. The securement mechanism 390A includesprotrusions 391A and 391B (discuss in more detail below). The securementmechanism 390B includes protrusions 391B and 391D. The protrusion 391Amay secure (or help secure) the data storage device 120A to the adaptor180C when the securement mechanism 390A is in the first position. Theprotrusion 391B may secure (or help secure) the data storage device 120Bto the adaptor 180C when the securement mechanism 390B is in the firstposition. The protrusion 391C may secure (or help secure) a third datastorage device (not illustrated in FIG. 5A) to the adaptor 180C when thesecurement mechanism 390B is in the first position.

In the first position, the protrusion 391A may interact with (e.g.,touch, contact, abut, push against, etc.) the retention features thedata storage device 120A. This may prevent the data storage device 120Afrom being moved, adjusted, removed, repositioned, etc. In the secondposition, the protrusion 391B may not interact with retention feature222B of the data storage device 120B. This may allow the data storagedevice 120B to be moved, adjusted, removed, repositioned, etc.

The securement mechanism 390A also includes a ledge 392A and thesecurement mechanism 390B also includes ledge 392B. The ledges 392A and392B may each include aperture(s) 393 that may interact with one or morefeatures 387 of the adaptor 180C to maintain the securement mechanisms390A and 390B in the first position, as discussed above. The features387 may be part of component 386 that is coupled to the adaptor 180C.The component 386 may also include guiding feature 388B that may allow auser to align the data storage device 120B when the data storage device120B is coupled to the connector 382B.

FIG. 5B illustrates a bottom view of an adaptor in accordance with oneor more embodiments of the present disclosure. The adaptor 180C includessecurement mechanisms 390A and 390B, a printed circuit board 384, aconnector 382C, a connector 382D, and a connector 383. The data storagedevices 120C and 120D may be located on a same side of the adaptor 180C(e.g., a bottom, lower, second side). The securement mechanisms 390A and390B is attached to the adaptor 180C at point 385 on the adaptor 180C.

In one embodiment, the securement mechanism 390A be in a first position(e.g., a closed position) and the securement mechanism 390B may be in asecond position (e.g., an open position). The securement mechanism 390Aincludes protrusion 391C. The securement mechanism 390B includesprotrusion 391D. The protrusion 391C may secure (or help secure) thedata storage device 120C to the adaptor 180C when the securementmechanism 390A is in the first position. The protrusion 391D may secure(or help secure) the data storage device 120D to the adaptor 180C whenthe securement mechanism 390B is in the first position.

In the first position, the protrusion 391C may interact with (e.g.,touch, contact, abut, push against, etc.) the retention features thedata storage device 120C. This may prevent the data storage device 120Cfrom being moved, adjusted, removed, repositioned, etc. In the secondposition, the protrusion 391D may not interact with retention feature222D of the data storage device 120D. This may allow the data storagedevice 120D to be moved, adjusted, removed, repositioned, etc.

The securement mechanism 390A also includes a ledge 392A and thesecurement mechanism 390B also includes ledge 392B. The ledges 392A and392B may each include aperture(s) 393 that may interact with one or morefeatures 387 of the adaptor 180C to maintain the securement mechanisms390A and 390B in the first position, as discussed above. The features387 may be part of component 386 that is coupled to the adaptor 180C.The component 386 may also include guiding feature 388D that may allow auser to align the data storage device 120D when the data storage device120D is coupled to the connector 382D.

FIG. 6A illustrates a perspective view of an adaptor 180D in accordancewith one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The adaptor 180Dincludes a securement mechanism 690, a printed circuit board 384, aconnector 382, and a connector 383. The connector 382 and the connector383 may be coupled to the printed circuit board 384. A data storagedevice 120 may be coupled to the adaptor 180D via the connector 382. Theconnector 383 may allow the adaptor 180D (and the data storage device120) to be coupled to another device. The connector 383 and theconnector 383 may be coupled to each other via pins, wires, traces, etc.This may allow data and/or power to be transmitted between the connector382 and the connector 383.

The securement mechanism 690 is attached to the adaptor 180D via therails 685. For example, portions of the securement mechanism 690 (e.g.,the ledges 692) may be located between the rails 685 and the printedcircuit board 384. In other embodiments, the ledges 692 may be locatedbetween an upper and lower rail. The width of the upper portion of thesecurement mechanism 690 may allow the upper portion of the securementmechanism 690 to be positioned between the rails 685. The securementmechanism 690 is movable along a longitudinal axis (e.g., the length) ofthe adaptor 180D. For example, the securement mechanism may be movedtowards and/or away from the data storage device 120, as illustrated bythe dashed arrow.

In one embodiment, the securement mechanism 690 be in a first position,as illustrated in FIG. 6A. In the first position, the securementmechanism 690 may secure the data storage device 120 to the adaptor180D. The data storage device 120 may be irremovable from the adaptor180D when the securement mechanism 690 is in the first positionillustrated in FIG. 6A. For example, the securement mechanism 690 mayprevent the data storage device 120 from being removed, uncoupled, etc.,from the adaptor 180D (e.g., may prevent the data storage device 120from being removed without damaging the data storage device 120) whenthe securement mechanism is in the first position. The first positionmay be referred to as a closed position, a secure position, a lockedposition, etc.

The securement mechanism 690 includes a protrusion 691. In oneembodiment, the protrusion 691 may secure (or help secure) the datastorage device 120 to the adaptor 180D when the securement mechanism 690is in the first position (e.g., the closed positioned). The protrusion691 may be a tab, abutment, etc., that may interact with a retentionfeature of the data storage device 120 (e.g., retention feature 222illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B). For example, the portion 691 mayinclude a notch (e.g., a gap) that may accept, interact with, contact,touch, etc., a portion of the printed circuit board of the data storagedevice 120. This may prevent the data storage device from being moved,adjusted, removed, repositioned, etc. For example, the protrusion 691may keep the data storage device 120 from being pulled out of theconnector 382, from being lifted, etc. The protrusion 691 may allow thesecurement mechanism 390 to secure the data storage device 120 to theadaptor 180A without touching other components of the data storagedevice (e.g., without touching flash ships, a controller, wires, pins,etc.).

The securement mechanism 690 includes ledges 692. In one embodiment, theledges 692 may maintain (or help maintain) the securement mechanism 690in the first position (e.g., in the closed position). For example, eachledge 692 may be a tab, abutment, a prong, etc., that may fit betweenthe rails 685 and the printed circuit board 384. The ledges 692 mayinteract with one or more features (e.g., locking features) of theadaptor 180D to maintain the securement mechanism 690 in the firstposition (e.g., to prevent the securement mechanism 690 from moving).For example, the ledges 692 may interact with (e.g., touch, pushagainst, abut, etc.) bumps/tabs/protrusions (not illustrated in thefigures) located on the rails 685 and/or the printed circuit board 384.The bumps/tabs/protrusions (e.g., locking features) may deform to allowthe securement mechanism 690 to move past the bumps/tabs/protrusions.The bumps/tabs may reform after the securement mechanism 690 moves pastthe bumps/tabs/protrusions. The bumps/tabs/protrusions may help preventthe securement mechanism 690 from moving out of the first position(e.g., from moving out of the closed position) by touching, pushingagainst, touching, etc., the ledges 692.

In one embodiment, the securement mechanism 690 also includes one ormore grooves 694. The grooves 694 may assist a user in moving thesecurement mechanism 690 into different positions. For example, thegrooves 694 may provide a surface for a user to apply pressure or force(e.g., using the user's thumb) to slide or push the securement mechanism690 along the rails 685.

FIG. 6B illustrates a perspective view of an adaptor in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The adaptor 180Dincludes a securement mechanism 690, a printed circuit board 384, aconnector 382, and a connector 383. The data storage device 120 may becoupled to the adaptor 180D via the connector 382. The securementmechanism 690 is attached to the adaptor 180D via the rails 685. Thesecurement mechanism 690 is movable along a longitudinal axis (e.g., thelength) of the adaptor 180D.

In one embodiment, the securement mechanism 690 be in a second position,as illustrated in FIG. 6B. In the second position, the securementmechanism 690 may allow the data storage device 120 to be removed fromthe adaptor 180D. The data storage device 120 may be removable from theadaptor 180D when the securement mechanism 690 is in the second positionillustrated in FIG. 6B. The second position may be referred to as anopen position, a free position, an accessible position, etc.

The securement mechanism 690 includes a protrusion 691. In the secondposition, the protrusion 691 may not interact with the retention feature222 of the data storage device 120. This may allow the data storagedevice 120 to be removed from the adaptor 180D (e.g., the data storagedevice 120 may be removable).

The securement mechanism 690 includes ledges 692. In one embodiment, theledges 692 may maintain (or help maintain) the securement mechanism 690in the first position, as discussed above. The ledges 692 may interactwith one or more features (e.g., locking features) of the adaptor 180Dto maintain the securement mechanism 690 in the first position. Thebumps/tabs/protrusions (e.g., locking features) may deform to allow thesecurement mechanism 690 to move past the bumps/tabs/protrusions. Thebumps/tabs may reform after the securement mechanism 690 moves past thebumps/tabs/protrusions. The bumps/tabs/protrusions may help prevent thesecurement mechanism 690 from moving out of the first position bytouching, pushing against, touching, etc., the ledges 692. Thebumps/tabs/protrusions may be located on the printed circuit board 384and/or may be located on the rails 685. The securement mechanism 690also includes one or more grooves 694. The grooves 694 may assist a userin moving the securement mechanism 690 into different positions.

FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective view of an adaptor 180E in accordancewith one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The adaptor 180Eincludes a securement mechanism 690, a printed circuit board 384, aconnector 382, and a connector 383. The data storage device 120A may becoupled to the adaptor 180E via the connector 382A. The data storagedevice 120B may be coupled to the adaptor 180E via the connector 382B.The securement mechanism 690 is attached to the adaptor 180E via therails 685. The securement mechanism 690 is movable along a longitudinalaxis (e.g., the length) of the adaptor 180E.

In one embodiment, the securement mechanism 690 may be in a firstposition, as illustrated in FIG. 7A. In the first position, thesecurement mechanism 690 may secure the data storage device 120 to theadaptor 180E. The data storage devices 120A and 120B may be irremovablefrom the adaptor 180E when the securement mechanism 690 is in the firstposition illustrated in FIG. 7A. The first position may be referred toas a closed position, a secure position, a locked position, etc.

The securement mechanism 690 includes protrusions 691A and 691B. In oneembodiment, the protrusions 691A and 691B may secure (or help secure)the data storage devices 120A and 120B to the adaptor 180E when thesecurement mechanism 690 is in the first position (e.g., the closedpositioned). The protrusions 691A and 691B (e.g., a tab, a protrusion,etc.) may each interact with a retention feature of the data storagedevices 120A and 120B. Each of the protrusions 691A and 691B may includea notch (e.g., a gap) that may accept, interact with, contact, touch,etc., a portion of the printed circuit board of a data storage device.

The securement mechanism 690 includes ledges 692. The ledges 692 maymaintain (or help maintain) the securement mechanism 690 in the firstposition, as discussed above. The ledges 692 may interact with one ormore features (e.g., locking features) of the adaptor 180E to maintainthe securement mechanism 690 in the first position. The locking features(e.g., bumps/tabs/protrusions) may help maintain the securementmechanism 690 in different positions. The securement mechanism 690 alsoincludes one or more grooves 694. The grooves 694 may assist a user inmoving the securement mechanism 690 into different positions.

FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective view of an adaptor in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The adaptor 180Eincludes a securement mechanism 690, a printed circuit board 384, aconnector 382, and a connector 383. The data storage device 120A may becoupled to the adaptor 180E via the connector 382A. The data storagedevice 120B may be coupled to the adaptor 180E via the connector 382B.The securement mechanism 690 is attached to the adaptor 180E via therails 685. The securement mechanism 690 is movable along a longitudinalaxis (e.g., the length) of the adaptor 180E, as illustrated by thedashed arrow.

In one embodiment, the securement mechanism 690 be in a second position,as illustrated in FIG. 7B. In the second position, the securementmechanism 690 may allow the data storage devices 120A and 120B to beremoved from the adaptor 180E. The data storage devices 120A and 120Bmay be removable from the adaptor 180E when the securement mechanism 690is in the second position illustrated in FIG. 7B. The second positionmay be referred to as an open position, a free position, an accessibleposition, etc.

The securement mechanism 690 includes protrusions 691A and 691B. In thesecond position, the protrusions 691A and 691B may not interact with(e.g., may not touch, interface with, etc.) the retention features 222Aand 222B. The securement mechanism 690 includes ledges 692. The ledges692 may maintain (or help maintain) the securement mechanism 690 in thefirst position, as discussed above. The ledges 692 may interact with oneor more features (e.g., locking features) of the adaptor 180E tomaintain the securement mechanism 690 in different positions.

FIG. 8 illustrates a top view of an adaptor in accordance with one ormore embodiments of the present disclosure. The adaptor 180F includes asecurement mechanism 690, a printed circuit board 384, a connector 382,and a connector 383. The data storage device 120A may be coupled to theadaptor 180F via the connector 382A. The data storage device 120B may becoupled to the adaptor 180F via the connector 382B. The securementmechanism 690 is attached to the adaptor 180F via the rails 685. Thesecurement mechanism 690 is movable along a longitudinal axis (e.g., thelength) of the adaptor 180F.

In one embodiment, the securement mechanism 690 be in a second position,as illustrated in FIG. 7B. In the second position, the securementmechanism 690 may allow the data storage device 120 to be removed fromthe adaptor 180F. The data storage devices 120A and 120B may beremovable from the adaptor 180F when the securement mechanism 690 is inthe second position illustrated in FIG. 7B. The second position may bereferred to as an open position, a free position, an accessibleposition, etc.

The securement mechanism 690 includes protrusions 691A and 691B. In oneembodiment, the protrusions 691A and 691B may secure (or help secure)the data storage devices 120A and 120B to the adaptor 180F when thesecurement mechanism 690 is in the first position (e.g., the closedpositioned). The securement mechanism 690 includes ledges 692. Theledges 692 may maintain (or help maintain) the securement mechanism 690in the first position, as discussed above. The ledges 692 may interactwith one or more features (e.g., locking features) of the adaptor 180Fto maintain the securement mechanism 690 in the different positions.

The adaptor 180F also includes an insert 810. The insert 810 may includeprongs 812 (e.g., tabs, protrusions, etc.) that may be inserted intoaperture(s) 893 in the securement mechanism 690. The insert 810 alsoincludes a gap 813 that may interact with (e.g., may accept, may fitwith, may touch, may contact, etc.) the protrusion 691B. For example,the gap 813 may have the same shape as the protrusion 691B. The gap 813and the prongs 812 allow the insert 810 to be coupled to the securementmechanism 690. The prongs 812 may include features (e.g., smaller bumps,tabs, etc.) that are deformable which may allow the prongs 812 toprovide some resistance against the removal of the insert 810. Whenenough force is applied, the prongs 812 may be inserted into theapertures 893 and may remain in the apertures 893 to attach (e.g.,secure) the insert 810 to the securement mechanism 890. In addition, theinsert 810 may also be removable from the securement mechanism 690. Forexample, when enough force is applied, the tabs on the prongs 812 maydeform to allow the insert 810 to be removed from the securementmechanism 690.

The insert 810 also includes a portion 811. The size, shape, layout,and/or configuration of portion 811 may be similar to protrusion 691B.The portion 811 may include a notch that may accept, interact with,contact, touch, etc., retention feature 222B of the data storage device120B. The insert 810 may allow the securement mechanism 690 to securedata storage devices that are shorter than data storage device 120A, tothe adaptor 180F. For example, data storage device 120B is not as longas data storage device 120A. Thus, the protrusion 691B may not reach theretention feature 222B of the data storage device 120B. The insert 810may bridge the gap, space, etc., between the protrusion 691B (or 691A)and a shorter data storage device (e.g., a data storage device that isnot as long as data storage device 120A). After the insert 810 isattached to the securement mechanism 690, the securement mechanism 690may be moved (e.g., pushed, slid, etc.) towards the data storage devices120A and 120B to secure the data storage devices 120A and 120B to theadaptor 180F.

FIG. 9A illustrates a perspective view of an adaptor 180G in accordancewith one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The perspectiveview may be a perspective view of a top/upper/first side of the adaptor180G. The adaptor 180G includes a securement mechanism 690A, a printedcircuit board 384, a connector 382, and a connector 383. The adaptor180G also includes a second securement mechanism 690B discussed in moredetail below. The data storage device 120A may be coupled to the adaptor180G via the connector 382. The securement mechanism 690A is attached tothe adaptor 180G via the rails 685A. The securement mechanism 690A ismovable along a longitudinal axis (e.g., the length) of the adaptor180G, as illustrated by the dashed arrow.

In one embodiment, the securement mechanism 690A be in a secondposition, as illustrated in FIG. 9A. In the second position, thesecurement mechanism 690A may allow the data storage device 120A to beremoved from the adaptor 180G. The data storage device 120A may beremovable from the adaptor 180G when the securement mechanism 690 is inthe second position illustrated in FIG. 9A. The second position may bereferred to as an open position, a free position, an accessibleposition, etc.

The securement mechanism 690A includes a protrusion 691A. In oneembodiment, the protrusion 691A may secure (or help secure) the datastorage device 120A to the adaptor 180G when the securement mechanism690A is in the first position (e.g., the closed positioned). In thesecond position, the protrusion 691 may not interact with the retentionfeature 222 of the data storage device 120A. This may allow the datastorage device 120A to be removed from the adaptor 180G (e.g., the datastorage device 120A may be removable).

The securement mechanism 690 includes ledge 692A. In one embodiment, theledge 692A may maintain (or help maintain) the securement mechanism 690Ain the first position, as discussed above. The portions 692A mayinteract with one or more features (e.g., locking features) of theadaptor 180G to maintain the securement mechanism 690A in differentpositions. The securement mechanism 690A also includes one or moregrooves 694A. The grooves 694A may assist a user in moving thesecurement mechanism 690A into different positions.

FIG. 9B illustrates a perspective view of an adaptor in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The perspective viewmay be a perspective view of a second/bottom/lower side of the adaptor180G. The adaptor 180G includes a securement mechanism 690B, a printedcircuit board 384, a connector 382, and a connector 383. The adaptor180G also includes a second securement mechanism 690B discussed above.The data storage devices 120B and 120C may be coupled to the adaptor180G via the connectors 382B and 382C. The securement mechanism 690B isattached to the adaptor 180G via the rails 685B. The securementmechanism 690B is movable along a longitudinal axis (e.g., the length)of the adaptor 180G, as illustrated by the dashed arrow.

In one embodiment, the securement mechanism 690B be in a first position,as illustrated in FIG. 9B (e.g., a closed position). In the firstposition, the securement mechanism 690B may secure the data storagedevices 120B and 120C to the adaptor 180G. The data storage data storagedevices 120B and 120C may irremovable from the adaptor 180G when thesecurement mechanism 690 is in the first position illustrated in FIG.9B. The first position may be referred to as a closed position, a lockedposition, a secure position, etc.

The securement mechanism 690B includes protrusions 691B and 691C. In oneembodiment, the protrusions 691B and 691C may secure (or help secure)the data storage devices 120B and 120C to the adaptor 180G when thesecurement mechanism 690B is in the first position (e.g., the closedpositioned). The protrusions 691B and 691C (e.g., a tab, abutment, etc.)may interact with a retention features of the data storage devices 120Band 120C. The protrusions 691B and 691C may each include a notch (e.g.,a gap) that may accept, interact with, contact, touch, etc., a portionof the printed circuit board of the data storage devices 120B and 120C.

The securement mechanism 690B includes ledge 692B. In one embodiment,the ledge 692B may maintain (or help maintain) the securement mechanism690B in the first position, as discussed above. The portions 692B mayinteract with one or more features (e.g., locking features) of theadaptor 180G to maintain the securement mechanism 690B in differentpositions. The securement mechanism 690B also includes one or moregrooves 694B. The grooves 694B may assist a user in moving thesecurement mechanism 690B into different positions.

In other embodiments, different numbers of data storage devices may belocated on different sides of an adaptor. Various configurations ofconnectors and/or securement mechanisms may be used in differentembodiments. For example, a first side of the adaptor may be similar toadaptor 180E illustrated in FIG. 7A, and second side of the adaptor maybe similar to adaptor 180G. In another example, both sides of an adaptormay be similar to the adaptor 180D illustrated in FIG. 6A. In a furtherexample, one side of the adaptor may be similar to the adaptor 180Fillustrated in FIG. 8 and the other side of the adaptor may similar tothe adaptor 180G.

General Comments

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that in some embodiments, othertypes of distributed data storage systems may be implemented whileremaining within the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, theactual steps taken in the processes discussed herein may differ fromthose described or shown in the figures. Depending on the embodiment,certain of the steps described above may be removed, others may beadded.

While certain embodiments have been described, these embodiments havebeen presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit thescope of protection. Indeed, the novel methods and systems describedherein may be embodied in a variety of other forms. Furthermore, variousomissions, substitutions and changes in the form of the methods andsystems described herein may be made. The accompanying claims and theirequivalents are intended to cover such forms or modifications as wouldfall within the scope and spirit of the protection. For example, thevarious components illustrated in the figures may be implemented assoftware and/or firmware on a processor, ASIC/FPGA, or dedicatedhardware. Also, the features and attributes of the specific embodimentsdisclosed above may be combined in different ways to form additionalembodiments, all of which fall within the scope of the presentdisclosure. Although the present disclosure provides certain preferredembodiments and applications, other embodiments that are apparent tothose of ordinary skill in the art, including embodiments which do notprovide all of the features and advantages set forth herein, are alsowithin the scope of this disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of thepresent disclosure is intended to be defined only by reference to theappended claims.

The words “example” or “exemplary” are used herein to mean serving as anexample, instance, or illustration. Any aspect or design describedherein as “example’ or “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed aspreferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. Rather, use ofthe words “example” or “exemplary” is intended to present concepts in aconcrete fashion. As used in this disclosure, the term “or” is intendedto mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or”. That is, unlessspecified otherwise, or clear from context, “X includes A or B” isintended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, ifX includes A; X includes B; or X includes both A and B, then “X includesA or B” is satisfied under any of the foregoing instances. In addition,the articles “a” and “an” as used in this disclosure and the appendedclaims should generally be construed to mean “one or more” unlessspecified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singularform. Moreover, use of the term “an embodiment” or “one embodiment” or“an implementation” or “one implementation” throughout is not intendedto mean the same embodiment or implementation unless described as such.Furthermore, the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” etc., asused herein are meant as labels to distinguish among different elementsand may not necessarily have an ordinal meaning according to theirnumerical designation.

All of the processes described above may be embodied in, and fullyautomated via, software code modules executed by one or more generalpurpose or special purpose computers or processors. The code modules maybe stored on any type of computer-readable medium or other computerstorage device or collection of storage devices. Some or all of themethods may alternatively be embodied in specialized computer hardware.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus, comprising: a printed circuitboard; a first connector coupled to the printed circuit board, whereinthe first connector couples the apparatus to a computing device; asecond connector coupled to the printed circuit board, wherein thesecond connector couples the apparatus to a first data storage device;and a plurality of securement mechanisms disposed at a proximal end ofthe apparatus, wherein each of the plurality of securement mechanisms isrotatable about a point on the apparatus between a first position and asecond position, each of the plurality of securement mechanismscomprising: a ledge comprising an aperture, wherein the apertureinteracts with a component comprising one or more features of theapparatus to maintain a respective securement mechanism of the pluralityof securement mechanisms in the first position, the component furthercomprising a guiding feature which aligns the apparatus when coupled toeither the first or the second connector; wherein the one or morefeatures of the apparatus deforms to insert into at least one of theapertures; a protrusion interacts with a retention feature of theapparatus; and an engagement adjusts a respective securement mechanismof the plurality of securement mechanisms into the first position;wherein the first position prevents each of the plurality of securementmechanisms from moving, and wherein the second position prevents theprotrusion from interacting with the retention feature.
 2. The apparatusof claim 1, wherein the engagement of the respective securementmechanism of the plurality of securement mechanisms further comprises atab.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the respective securementmechanism of the plurality of securement mechanisms comprises a latchrotatable about the point on the apparatus.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein the point on the apparatus is offset from a center axis of thefirst data storage device.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1, furthercomprising a third connector coupled to the printed circuit board,wherein the third connector is couples the apparatus to a second datastorage device.
 6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein: the protrusionsecures the first data storage device to the apparatus when at least oneof the plurality of securement mechanisms is in the first position. 7.The apparatus of claim 5, wherein: the first data storage device and thesecond data storage device are located on a same side of the printedcircuit board; at least one of the plurality of securement mechanisms ismovable between a third position and a fourth position, and comprises aportion which maintains the at least one of the plurality of securementmechanisms at the third position.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein:the first data storage device is irremovable from the apparatus when atleast one of the plurality of securement mechanisms is in the firstposition; and the first data storage device is removable from theapparatus when the at least one of the plurality of securementmechanisms is in the second position.